Senator PATRICK (South Australia) (15:48): I ask that general business notice of motion No. 843 be taken as a formal motion. The PRESIDENT: Is any objection to the motion being taken as formal? Senator Ruston: Yes. The PRESIDENT: There is an objection. Senator PATRICK: In lieu of suspending standing orders, I seek leave to make a short statement. The PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute. Senator PATRICK: It is quite extraordinary that the government has denied formality on a motion in support of Taiwan, a vibrant democracy and indeed an important trading partner for Australia. This motion is largely based on the words that came from AUSMIN and it just reaffirms Australia's view that any resolution of differences between China and Taiwan must be peaceful. It's a shame that the Senate won't be able to stand and support Taiwan—42 million people who are under some threat from increased rhetoric and increased incursions into Taiwanese waters and air space by Chinese military aircraft. Senator Hanson: It's 24 million. Senator PATRICK: Sorry—24 million; thank you, Senator Hanson. I am taken aback that the government would deny formality to a motion supporting Taiwan.